Combining LED Technology with 3D Printing

January 5, 2018

Disruptive technologies change entire industries when they are introduced, and 3D printing is an example of this. The power of 3D printing lies in the fact that it can convert a computer model into a physical product in a single step, without having to follow a traditional manufacturing process. Although the technology has existed for some time, it has only recently become cost effective.

For the lighting industry, the rise of 3D printing means that the way in which lighting fixtures are manufactured could completely change over the next few years. A current industry trend is the “humanization” of lighting, where the focus is no longer providing the most lumens with the minimum energy input. Energy efficiency remains a key element of lighting design, but the impact of lighting on human well-being and health has also gained importance. The possibilities of creating spaces and the influence of lighting on mood have become fundamental elements of lighting design, and this brings with it a greater emphasis on luminaire customization.

LED technology, thanks to its compact size, offers great flexibility with respect to how luminaire optics are designed. With 3D printing, a lighting designer can create a luminaire with just the right optics for the intended application, rather than adapting an existing product. The possibilities are endless when the versatility of LED technology is complemented with 3D printing.

Two further advantages of 3D printing in the lighting industry are cost reduction and speed. If lighting fixtures are 3D printed, it is no longer necessary to ship finished products across large distances. Instead, the process only requires the raw materials, which may be available locally, from a wider variety of providers, and at a low cost. Production speed, on the other hand, is achieved by condensing the entire manufacturing process into a single step. It is no longer necessary to invest huge sums of capital in order to be a competitive lamp manufacturer, since 3D printing allows small-scale and custom production at a low cost.

Another great advantage of 3D printing is that it becomes easier for lamp designers located in different parts of the world to collaborate. It is possible, for example, to store a 3D model developed by a design team in a cloud-based platform. If that same product is needed in multiple projects located in different countries, there is no need to set up a production line and ship the finished product to the respective project locations. The luminaires are simply 3D printed locally, in just the right amounts needed by each project.


This article was first published as a blog on LightPro: https://blog.light.pro/3d-printing-will-revolutionize-the-lighting-industry/. LightPro is a web application that connects lighting professionals with prospective clients using an e-lancing business model. The company is available to users globally through the Internet. This freelancing platform will connect lighting industry professionals with jobs on an E-lancing platform. Find out more: www.light.pro

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Noramco-Announces-Samantha-Boernsen-as-New-Regional-Sales-Manager-Winnipeg

    Noramco Announces Samantha Boernsen as New Regional Sales Manager, Winnipeg

    Please join Noramco in welcoming Samantha Boernsen as Regional Sales Manager, Winnipeg! Samantha brings a wealth of experience in the electrical industry, with a strong focus on lighting, marketing strategy, and customer engagement. She has built her career on connecting technical expertise with real-world application, making her a trusted partner to clients and colleagues alike.… Read More…

  • July 7, 2025 - Light Years Ahead SkyView by BIOS Launches in BC with Mac’s II Agencies

    Light Years Ahead: SkyView by BIOS Launches in BC with Mac’s II Agencies

    Mac’s II Agencies is proud to represent SkyView by BIOS Lighting across British Columbia. As the first agency in BC to bring this innovative brand to market, they are excited to help launch a new chapter for SkyView—a new company rooted in cutting-edge science and committed to wellness through light. This addition to Mac’s II Agencies’ lighting… Read More…


Design

  • What You Need to Consider When Choosing Data Center Lighting

    What You Need to Consider When Choosing Data Center Lighting

    When operating a data center, the lighting syst​em is often not the most concerned part. Actually, lighting system performance directly influences whole electricity consumption and operating costs, especially in a 24-hour non-stop data center. This article will delve into the key factors to be considered when choosing data center lighting. For enterprises that are planning to… Read More…

  • Artika: 5 Advantages of Smart Lighting

    Artika: 5 Advantages of Smart Lighting

    Lighting is arguably one of the most important features of any home. Too bright, and it can be abrasive, increasing your sensitivity to light. Too dim, and it hides the unique characteristics of your home and can have adverse effects on your mood. When you design your home, the type of lighting and fixtures you… Read More…


New Products

  • RENO Lighting: Lucid Series Ambient Bi-Directional Luminaire

    RENO Lighting: Lucid Series Ambient Bi-Directional Luminaire

    The Lucid Series Bi-Directional Luminaire is an ultra-slim, contemporary light designed for performance. It provides seamless, dot-free upward and downward illumination with a 50/50 direct-indirect distribution. Its translucent lens creates an elegant, diffused glow resembling natural daylight that brings warmth to any environment.​ Designed for modern, design- forward interiors, the Lucid Bi- Directional Luminaire is… Read More…

  • Eralux: New OCEANO Outdoor Wall Sconce

    Eralux: New OCEANO Outdoor Wall Sconce

    The OCEANO outdoor sconce features an elegant design, offering up and down lighting. With IP65 weatherproofing, it’s built for durability. Its sleek, modern design and robust construction make it perfect for both aesthetic appeal and long-lasting performance in any outdoor setting. Applications: Commercial Entrances | Outdoor Landscapes | Facades | Residential Exteriors Read More…